Washington, D.C., USA- January 13, 2020: FDA Sign at its headquarters in Washington DC. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or USFDA) is a federal agency of the USA.
Wellington, FL — PennRose Farms, LLC has issued a voluntary recall of whole cucumbers sold in 5-pound mesh bags after learning the produce may be contaminated with Salmonella, a potentially dangerous bacterium. The company made the announcement on May 21, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) publishing the recall notice on May 22.
The cucumbers in question were repacked and distributed under the PennRose Farms and Restaurant Depot logos. Approximately 1,152 cases—equating to 9,216 individual units—were affected. The recall applies specifically to bags with UPC code 841214101714, packaged between May 2 and May 5, and carrying the lot numbers 48-122, 48-123, 48-124, and 48-125.
The cucumbers were shipped to Restaurant Depot distribution centers located in New Jersey, Georgia, Florida, Illinois, and Ohio.
According to PennRose Farms, the issue stems from a notification by its supplier, Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc., which revealed that the cucumbers originated from Bedner Growers, Inc., a source currently recalling its products due to potential Salmonella contamination.
Salmonella infections can pose a serious health threat, especially to young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms often include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, the infection can spread into the bloodstream, leading to potentially life-threatening complications such as endocarditis, arterial infections, and arthritis.
No illnesses have been reported so far in connection with the recalled cucumbers. However, PennRose Farms has notified all affected Restaurant Depot distribution centers and advised them to inform their customers.
Consumers and businesses are urged not to consume, serve, or sell the recalled cucumbers. Any affected product should be discarded immediately. Customers seeking more information can contact PennRose Farms at 800-804-7254 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST.
The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the FDA. For additional updates and health safety information, consumers can refer to the FDA’s outbreak advisory.
